The Government of Sierra Leone has overspent its 2024 budget by more than NLe 1.6 billion, according to official figures from the Ministry of Finance, raising concerns about the country’s fiscal discipline and management of public funds.

The data shows that non-interest recurrent spending—which covers salaries, goods, and services reached NLe 16.6 billion, exceeding the approved NLe 12.4 billion by about NLe 4.3 billion. Interest payments also went beyond projections, totaling NLe 4.7 billion, over NLe 600 million more than budgeted.

At the same time, capital expenditure fell sharply below target. Only NLe 3.3 billion was spent on development projects compared to a planned NLe 7.1 billion, a shortfall of NLe 3.8 billion.

Overall, the government spent NLe 25.1 billion in 2024 against an approved budget of NLe 23.5 billion. The imbalance resulted in a cash deficit of NLe 4.2 billion and a year-end negative cash balance of NLe 5.9 billion, Truth Media reported.

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Analysts warn that such spending patterns overshooting recurrent costs while cutting back on capital investments could deepen fiscal pressures, limit resources for essential programs, and add to the country’s public debt burden.

The revelations also come amid growing calls for stronger accountability and transparency in the handling of state finances, as Sierra Leone continues to grapple with economic challenges and rising demands for public services.